**Summary of "The Bible in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz)"
Episode: Day 170: Joash's Downfall
Release Date: June 19, 2025

Introduction and Podcast Mission

In Day 170 of "The Bible in a Year," Fr. Mike Schmitz emphasizes the enduring mission of the podcast to disseminate the Word of God. He shares exciting developments, including the addition of the podcast to YouTube and efforts to translate it into multiple languages. Fr. Mike underscores the importance of listener support to keep the podcast freely accessible, inviting contributions at ascensionpress.com/support.

Notable Quote:
"The end of this year is not going to be the end of Bible in a Year."
— Fr. Mike Schmitz [00:00]

Scripture Readings

Fr. Mike guides listeners through three scripture passages for the day:

1. 2 Kings 1
2. 2 Chronicles 24
3. Psalm 69

He utilizes the Revised Standard Version, Second Catholic Edition, from the Great Adventure Bible by Ascension. Listeners are encouraged to follow along with their own Bible in a Year reading plan available at ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear.

Detailed Analysis of 2 Kings 1 and 2 Chronicles 24

2 Kings 1: Elijah Confronts King Ahaziah

Fr. Mike narrates the downfall of King Ahaziah of Israel, who consults Baalzebub, the god of Ekron, seeking recovery from a fall. Elijah the Tishbite, empowered by the angel of the Lord, condemns Ahaziah’s reliance on a false deity.

Notable Quote:
"Is it because there is no God in Israel that you are going to inquire of Baalzebub, the God of Ekron?"
— Elijah the Prophet [Annotated in 2 Kings 1]

Ahaziah's persistent unfaithfulness leads to his demise, fulfilling Elijah's prophecy. The narrative highlights the consequences of turning away from God's guidance.

2 Chronicles 24: Joash's Reign and Downfall

Fr. Mike delves into the reign of King Joash of Judah, who begins as a righteous leader under the mentorship of the priest Jehoiada. Joash restores the Temple and reinstates the Levite tax, demonstrating his commitment to God.

Notable Quote:
"Joash did what was right in the eyes of the Lord all the days of Jehoiada."
— 2 Chronicles 24:2 [Narration by Fr. Mike]

However, after Jehoiada's death, Joash succumbs to idolatry, forsaking the Lord and leading Judah into apostasy. His disregard for prophetic counsel results in internal strife and ultimately his assassination by his own subjects.

Key Points:

• Restoration Efforts: Joash’s initial efforts to restore worship and the Temple highlight the positive impact of faithful leadership.
• Mentorship Importance: The role of Jehoiada illustrates the critical influence of mentors in maintaining spiritual integrity.
• Downfall: Without Jehoiada’s guidance, Joash deviates from his righteous path, emphasizing the vulnerability of leaders without strong moral anchors.

Reflection on Psalm 69

Fr. Mike presents Psalm 69 as a profound prayer for deliverance from persecution. He highlights its depth and connects it to prophetic elements seen in the New Testament, particularly Jesus’ suffering.

Notable Quote:
"There is a depth there. And there's also, if you might have seen it, a foreshadowing of Jesus."
— Fr. Mike Schmitz [Timestamp: Later in the transcript]

He references C.S. Lewis’s "Reflection on the Psalms," discussing the psalmist’s honest expression of anger and desire for justice. Fr. Mike encourages embracing the honesty in prayer, allowing genuine emotions to be brought before God.

Key Insights:

• Spiritual Warfare: The psalm reflects the struggle against spiritual adversaries, aligning with St. Paul’s teachings on battling principalities and powers.
• Authentic Prayer: Acknowledging and presenting true feelings in prayer, even those of anger, fosters a deeper relationship with God.

Connecting Scriptures and Contemporary Application

Fr. Mike draws parallels between the biblical narratives and personal spiritual journeys. He underscores the importance of mentorship in maintaining faithfulness, as exemplified by Jehoiada and Joash.

Notable Quote:
"Who is that Jehoiada in my life who can speak truth to me?"
— Fr. Mike Schmitz [Towards the end]

He urges listeners to identify and cherish mentors who guide them back to righteousness, emphasizing the need for a supportive faith community.

Personal Application:

• Seek Mentorship: Recognize and value those who provide spiritual guidance and accountability.
• Community Prayer: Encourage collective prayer for one another's spiritual well-being and willingness to embrace transformative truths.

Closing Prayer and Benediction

Fr. Mike concludes with a heartfelt prayer, thanking God for His faithfulness and requesting continued presence and support in moments of distress and failure. He emphasizes mutual prayer support within the community, fostering a spirit of intercession and solidarity.

Notable Quote:
"Continue to help us to cling to you when all else has failed and when everyone else has failed us."
— Fr. Mike Schmitz [Final Prayer]

He blesses the listeners, reminding them of the ongoing journey through the Bible and the communal bonds formed through shared faith and prayer.

Conclusion and Takeaways

Day 170 of "The Bible in a Year" offers a comprehensive exploration of leadership, faithfulness, and the consequences of deviation from God's path. Through the stories of Ahaziah and Joash, Fr. Mike Schmitz illustrates the pivotal role of mentorship and the perils of forsaking divine guidance. Psalm 69 serves as a powerful reminder of authentic prayer and reliance on God amidst persecution.

Key Takeaways:

• Faithful Leadership: Strong, righteous leadership is essential for communal spiritual health.
• Mentorship: Spiritual mentors are vital in guiding and sustaining faith.
• Authentic Prayer: Honest expressions of emotion strengthen one's relationship with God.
• Community Support: Mutual prayer and support cultivate a resilient faith community.

Fr. Mike encourages listeners to reflect on their own spiritual journeys, identify mentors, and engage deeply with Scripture to understand how its narratives apply to their lives today.

Connect with the Podcast:

• Subscribe: Available on various platforms, including YouTube.
• Support: ascensionpress.com/support
• Reading Plan: ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear

This summary encapsulates the key discussions, insights, and emotions expressed in Day 170 of "The Bible in a Year" podcast, providing a comprehensive overview for those who have yet to listen.